A second public workshop is being held next week as part of Crowdfund Rochester.

The initiative, run by Countryside and Hyde, allows people in the local area to create and fund projects that make Rochester a better place to live, visit, work and study.

A workshop was held in July and eight projects began their crowdfunding, including a sensory garden on Rochester Esplanade as a tribute to local suffragist Vera Conway Gordan.

On September 25, at 5.30pm at the Rochester Corn Exchange, will be the second workshop where a fund of £50,000 will be contributes to the local area.

Rochester residents are invited to attend the launch for details on how to get involved in this exciting new initiative.

Those unable to attend the event are still invited to get involved by submitting their project ideas online.

Andy Fancy, Managing Director for North and South London at Countryside Partnerships South, said: “As the new homes at Rochester Riverside take shape, it’s extremely exciting to also see the first Crowdfund Rochester projects going live.

“There’s been such a variety of ideas; all of which are testament to the creativity of the Rochester community. With the second public workshop taking place this month, there’s still a great opportunity for local people to get involved in the programme.”

David Gannicott, Group Director of Business Development at the Hyde Group, said: “We are delighted to see the first project from Crowdfund Rochester get underway - it is a fantastic idea and will be a great addition to the community.

"Crowdfund Rochester is a perfect opportunity for local people to get involved and work with us to bring something new to the town and I am really looking forward to hearing more about the future projects that the local residents would like to see.”

Cllr Alan Jarrett, Leader of Medway Council, said: “I am pleased to see the first Crowdfund Projects taking shape. Rochester Riverside is Medway’s flagship regeneration project which will provide growth for all.

“The homes will boast fantastic views across the River Medway as well as great transport links, with London only 40 minutes away by train.”

Registration for the launch event is free and you can sign up here.